Take These Steps So Your Home Doesn’t Shout, ‘We’re Away’

Whether you’re taking off for a holiday in the sun or a visit with relatives out of town, here’s something you don’t want to forget. An unoccupied home is subject to many hazards, so to avoid an insurance claim, take preventive measures before you leave. Below are some things to do to protect your house while you’re gone:

• Ask a neighbor to watch your home for damage or suspicious activity. Make sure you leave a spare key and a phone number where you can be reached in an emergency.
• If you live in one of the cooler parts of the country, keep the heat on in your home in winter to avoid frozen pipes. Letting pipes drip slightly in freezing weather can help prevent them from bursting.
• Unplug electrical appliances and computer equipment to protect against power surges. If you use a surge protector, ensure it’s sufficient.
• Stop mail delivery and newspapers. Nothing shouts “We’re away” like papers piling up on your porch.
• If your home is in or near a flood zone, put important papers and electronics out of harm’s way.
• Trim trees and bushes from doorways and windows. Potential thieves will feel exposed. Also trimming branches may prevent wind damage to your property and others’. You can be held responsible if your neighbors allege that your lack of maintenance caused damage to their property.
• Ensure you purchase enough insurance to cover any possible claim. No one expects to have a loss, but if you do, you want to be adequately protected.